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Turf Intern Jobs in Rutherford, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Foreperson

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$72K - $83K/yr

... intern/volunteer supervision) * Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment in handling ... Experience with turf management and/or arboriculture a plus * Proven leadership ability, strong ...

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Turf Intern information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do turf intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for turf intern in Rutherford, NJ is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Turf Intern position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Turf Intern, you need a basic understanding of turfgrass management, horticulture, or agronomy, often supported by coursework or hands-on experience in related fields. Familiarity with machinery such as mowers, aerators, irrigation systems, and basic landscape maintenance tools is beneficial, and certifications like OSHA safety training can be advantageous. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective communication skills help interns excel in team settings. These skills are important to ensure proper turf maintenance, contribute to team success, and promote personal growth within the turf management industry.

What kind of projects or tasks can I expect as a Turf Intern?

As a Turf Intern, you’ll typically assist with daily maintenance activities such as mowing, fertilizing, pest control, irrigation management, and repairing turf areas. You may also have the opportunity to help with larger projects, like preparing athletic fields for events or participating in turf renovation efforts. Interns often work alongside experienced turf managers and groundskeepers, receiving on-the-job training and feedback. This exposure provides valuable practical experience and insight into turf management practices, preparing you for future roles within the industry.

What is a Turf Intern job?

A Turf Intern assists with the maintenance and care of sports fields, golf courses, or other turfgrass areas. Responsibilities typically include mowing, irrigation management, pest control, fertilization, and general upkeep to ensure high-quality playing surfaces. Interns gain hands-on experience working with industry professionals and may have opportunities to use specialized turf equipment. This role provides valuable practical knowledge for those pursuing a career in turf management or agronomy.

What are the most commonly searched types of Turf jobs in Rutherford, NJ? The most popular types of Turf jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:
What cities near Rutherford, NJ are hiring for Turf Intern jobs? Cities near Rutherford, NJ with the most Turf Intern job openings:
Turf Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Turf Intern job openings in Rutherford, NJ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Internship. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,124 per year, or $17.4 per hour.
Foreperson

Foreperson

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

$72K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Foreperson of Conservatory

Department: Horticulture

Reports to: Manager of Horticulture


FLSA Status: Full-time, Non-exempt
Grade: Union



Position Description:

Under general supervision, the foreperson of the Conservatory performs supervisory work of more than ordinary difficulty and responsibility in daily tasks relating to the maintenance, development, and record-keeping of Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Conservatory complex, plant nursery, and Bonsai Museum.
The foreperson of the Conservatory guides a crew of gardeners, assistant gardeners, seasonals, and volunteers.


Primary Responsibilities/Activities:


  • Organize, guide, and train staff as needed in planning and executing daily work schedules and special work projects.
  • Diagnose plant diseases, soil health issues and pest infestations. Coordinate and manage the routine scheduling of appropriate treatments using IPM strategies in the Conservatory.
  • Manage and be responsible for access, security, and sanitation of the service garages, chemical storage room and nursery.
  • Assist in ordering and keeping inventory control of general use supplies for greenhouse care and maintenance (fertilizer, soil amendments, mulch, etc.).
  • Monitor, track, and coordinate the automated environmental systems (temperature, humidity, ventilation, and lighting) to safeguard sensitive flora.
  • Oversee the propagation, potting, watering, and pruning of diverse plant collections.
  • Ensure strict compliance with environmental regulations and workplace safety standards.
  • Assist with procurement of plant materials for display and living collections.
  • Serve as a Horticulture department leader for snow removal Garden-wide.
  • Perform other related duties or special projects as directed.


Qualifications:


  • Bachelor of Science in Horticulture or related degree, plus a minimum of five years’ paid, full-time, high-level administrative horticultural and grounds management experience in a supervisory capacity (excludes seasonal/volunteer supervision)

OR

  • 10 years of paid, full-time, high-level administrative horticultural and grounds management experience, including 5 years in a supervisory capacity (excludes intern/volunteer supervision)
  • Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment in handling horticulture

and grounds management

  • Broad-based working knowledge and hands-on experience in the identification, culture, maintenance, and display of a wide range of ornamental plants

Additional Requirements:

  • May be required to pass written and practical exam
  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license in the state in which they reside
  • Must possess and maintain a current New York State pesticide applicator certification
  • Experience with turf management and/or arboriculture a plus
  • Proven leadership ability, strong communication skills
  • Computer literate
  • Organized and detail-oriented
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds


**Work schedule may not be Monday - Friday


Compensation and Benefits:

  • Salary Range – $72,601 - $83,491
    Brooklyn Botanic Garden considers several factors when determining the appropriate salary to offer a candidate within the listed salary range. These factors include (but are not limited to), the scope and responsibilities of the position, a candidate’s relevant work experience and education/training, prior union/ DC37 experience (for union positions), job skills, equity across the institution, as well as market and organizational considerations.
  • BBG offers a comprehensive benefits package including:
    • Health Insurance that begins the date of hire; employees are offered coverage through the City of New York’s Office of Labor Relations and can choose from a variety of plans, some at no cost to the employee.
    • Dental/Vision/Prescription Benefits
    • Pre-Tax Benefits including flexible spending, dependent care, transit/parking accounts
    • CIRS Pension/401K/Life Insurance: BBG is a member of the Cultural Institutions Retirement System (CIRS) and offers a pension and 401K plan for eligible employees. Life insurance is provided through CIRS as well.
    • Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability Insurance
    • Generous Paid Time Off including sick time, vacation time, and 13 annual holidays


  • As a 501(c)3, BBG is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Eligible Employer.
  • Museum Pass, which provides employees the opportunity to enter many museums in New York City for free
  • Free Garden admission for employee plus one guest
  • Employee discount at BBG’s retail shop and food venues


To be considered for this position, please submit an application by clicking Apply below. Applications submitted without a résumé and cover letter will not be considered.

No telephone calls for position inquiries, please. Applicants with disabilities who need assistance with the online system, or who may require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, should contact Human Resources at hr@bbg.org.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.